Reel Asian Film Fest - Sakuran
I’m wondering if anyone had a chance to see Sakuran at the Reel Asian this year. I ended up going and loving it. The director is a photographer and it definitely shows because each frame is captured so beautifully. I loved the colours and cinematography, but the most interesting thing about it was the juxtaposition of modern rock and pop music in what seems to be an old tale.
The film is based on a manga series about the life of oirans (prostitutes). The main character is sent to a brothel house (I think she was an orphan) to become a geisha/oiran, but she rebels constantly, bad-mouthing and fighting the other girls in the brothel. Eventually she falls in love with a client (not sure if I’m using the correct terminology) and becomes the head kiyoha (lead prostitute, but at the most respectful level).
I highly recommend the film, mostly for its cinematography but also its unique style, character development and even humour. The trailer can be found on youtube.
A more concise review: http://www.reelasian.com/program_f.php?program_id=140
Erin Pehlivan